Benedek Pince
Third-generation winemaker Péter Benedek carries on his family’s legacy
In the village of Gyöngyöstarján in Hungary’s Mátra region, third-generation winemaker Péter Benedek carries on his family’s legacy in his grandfather’s original cellar, along with the assistance of his parents, who help care for the vineyards.
Over time, the family has expanded the estate vineyards from 1.5 to 17 hectares. Varieties include Chardonnay, Cserszegi Fuszeres, Hárslevelű, Sauvignon Blanc, Kékfrankos, Pinot Noir and more. Below are examples of Benedek’s fine whites and reds.
Benedek Old Vine Hárslevelű 2021, Mátra, Hungary
A sumptuous sip of historic Hárslevelű
With this barrel-aged beauty, third-generation winemaker Péter Benedek shows why he's a master of Hárslevelű. Hand harvested from a solitary parcel located west of Eger, these precious grapes are protected by the Mátra mountains, allowing these old vines to survive and thrive. Their ancient roots run deep into the parcel's volcanic soils – giving this wine magnificent minerality and acidity. Juicy stone and citrus fruit flavors abound – making this Hárslevelű a match for roasted pork and vegetables and spicy chicken stew.
Benedek Epreskert Sauvignon Blanc 2023, Mátra, Hungary
Lively and light, you’ll want glass after glass of this zesty white
From Epreskert – Benedek's family vineyard in Mátra – comes this youthful and vibrant Sauvignon Blanc. It is mouthwatering with juicy flavors like ripe honeydew, crisp green apple, and zesty citrus – plus pronounced minerality from the vineyard's volcanic soils. Its liveliness will perk up poultry, seafood, pasta, and roasted vegetable dishes with lemon-based sauces, as well as be a perfect accompaniment to creamy goat cheese.
Benedek Chardonnay 2023, Mátra, Hungary
This Chardonnay is like a trip to the tropics
Hailing from Epreskert near Gyöngyöstarján in Mátra, this Chardonnay is organically farmed in volcanic soils, undergoes native yeast fermentation, then it is aged in tank on the lees – resulting in a fresh, yet full-bodied white that will stack up to those from regions known for Chardonnay. It is bright and textured with exotic aromas and flavors of ripe tropical fruits and zesty citrus – the perfect pairing for creamy sauce dishes, sautéed or steamed seafood, and roasted poultry.
Benedek Pinot Noir 2022, Mátra, Hungary
Light and bright, a true Pinot delight
From a single vineyard named Tüzköves near Gyöngyöstarján in Mátra comes this pristine Pinot. Under Benedek’s hand, this Pinot is organically farmed in volcanic soils, undergoes native yeast fermentation, then it is aged only 6 months in stainless – resulting in a fresh red you can enjoy any time of the year. Light on its feet, this Pinot dances with delicate aromas and flavors of ripe red berries, juicy red plum, and a dash of peppery spice – it's oh-so nice! This Pinot is the perfect pairing for seared tuna, roasted poultry (especially duck), pork tenderloin – or simply on its own.
Benedek Kékfrankos 2022, Mátra, Hungary
Put your feet up and relax – you've found your daily red
From the village of Gyöngyöstarján in Mátra comes this easy-drinking, award-winning Kékfrankos from Benedek. After 6 days fermenting on the skins, 6 months in tank, and 6 months in bottle – it is topped with a twist-off cap and ready to go. A playful duality of red and dark berry flavors capped off by a touch of vanilla and spice make this Kékfrankos a red you'll reach for time and time again. Enjoy this on its own around a firepit with friends or pair with spicy soups and stews.
Photos courtesy of Winelovers Wine Awards, Benedek Pince, and Danube Wines.
Wine notes originally written for UK importer and retailer Danube Wines
US Importer – Palinkerie.
UK Importer – Danube Wines.